“We started strong as usual but then the Czechs came back with smart plays to take the second and third sets. We recovered but in the tie-breaker they separated quickly, and it was difficult for us to get the momentum back.”

Ivona Svobodnikova, Captain of Czech Republic

“The two teams have the same level and both committed too many errors. We had chances to win the first and four sets but made mistakes. We played a little better than them in the tie-breaker.”

Paula Weishoff, Head Coach of USA

“We came with a game plan but couldn’t keep the consistency. In the second and third sets they served short and tipped balls to get in front. We are starting to play much better and we will keep fighting.”

Stanislav Mitac, Head Coach of Czech Republic

“I am very happy to get our first victory in this championship. The two teams have the same level and we had to recover from many mistakes. That’s what happened in the whole match. Many unforced errors from both teams.”